ZICAM HEALTH RISKS

What would you give to get rid of your cold . . . is it worth one of your senses?

Several users of Zicam have reported an intense burning sensation in their nasal cavities immediately after using the product, followed by a loss of smell and taste long after they were over their cold.

Zicam is an over-the-counter homeopathic nasal solutions that claims to reduce the symptoms and duration of the common cold. Zicam is applied directly to the nasal surface with either a spray or gel swab. Zicam contains the active ingredient Zincum Gluconicum, sometimes referred to as Zinc Gluconate. Some medical personnel believe that this ingredient causes a caustic action on the nasal passages and leads to a loss of smell (also known as ianosmiai).

On June 16, 2009, a Zicam recall was issued after the FDA warned consumers not to use the following products:

• Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel
• Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs
• Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size

The FDA has received at least 130 reports of users losing their sense of smell after their use of Zicam - this lead the FDA to to warn the manufacturer that they are no longer permitted to sell certain products in the U.S. until they are able to provide data establishing that their product is safe and effective.

What you should know:

• Nasal sprays containing zinc, such as Zicam, have been shown to severely damage or destroy one's ability to smell. This is a condition known as Anosmia.
• Inhibiting the sense of smell, in turn, greatly decreases the ability to taste.
• It has been known for decades that zinc compounds can cause nasal nerve damage.
• Despite awareness of these dangers, Zicam didn't provide adequate warnings to the public.

Our experience settling Zicam claims:

In 2006, Zimmerman Reed was lead counsel in obtaining a meaningful settlement on behalf hundreds of individuals who alleged loss of smell arising out of their use of the Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel product.

If you have experienced any adverse effects after using Zicam, you are urged to seek medical attention. If you or a member of your family may be suffering from Anosmia and have experienced loss of smell or taste from the use of Zicam, you may want to consider your potential legal claim for this loss. If you have recovered from your cold but are still suffering from a loss of smell or taste, click here to fill out a free case review form. If you would like more information, or would just like to talk with a lawyer experienced in this litigation, please call attorney Stacy Hauer at 800.755.0098. We are experienced in handling Zicam claims and we welcome any questions you may have.